fall Archives - Karee Russell

Colorado in October: Fall Colors, Scenic Drives & Golden Adventures

September 27, 2025Karee Russell

Discover the best scenic drives, fall colors, and outdoor adventures in Colorado this October. Explore golden aspens, wildlife, and mountain escapes.

Why October is Magical in Colorado

October in Colorado is a season of transformation. High peaks shimmer with the first dustings of snow while mountain valleys explode in hues of gold, orange, and crimson. The air turns crisp, the crowds of summer thin, and travelers find themselves immersed in one of the most breathtaking displays of fall foliage in the U.S.

Whether you’re chasing aspen groves on a scenic byway, hiking in a national park, or soaking in a hot spring under a canopy of glowing leaves, October is the sweet spot between summer adventure and winter wonder. Here’s how to make the most of your October Colorado trip.

🍁 The Best Scenic Drives for Colorado Fall Colors

Million Dollar Highway (Ouray–Silverton)

Perhaps the most iconic fall drive in Colorado, the Million Dollar Highway winds through the San Juan Mountains with hairpin turns, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping alpine views. In October, fiery aspens light up the steep slopes, creating one of the most spectacular road trips in the country. Pro tip: stop in Ouray for a soak in the hot springs after your drive.

Last Dollar Road (Telluride–Ridgway)

If you love photography, this dirt road is a must. The Last Dollar Road offers jaw-dropping views of the Sneffels Range framed by aspen groves. It’s especially beautiful in early to mid-October, when the golden leaves contrast with snow-dusted peaks.

West Elk Loop Scenic Byway

This 205-mile route connects small mountain towns like Crested Butte, Paonia, and Gunnison. Along the way, you’ll pass rivers, ranches, orchards, and valleys lit with fall color. Stop in Paonia for wine tasting at local vineyards.

Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (Near Denver)

For those short on time, the Peak to Peak is an easy day trip from Denver or Boulder. Stretching from Estes Park to Central City, this drive is lined with shimmering aspens, historic mining towns, and trailheads perfect for short hikes.

🥾 Outdoor Adventures in October

Hiking Among the Aspens

Fall hiking in Colorado is unforgettable. Trails near Crested Butte, Aspen, and Rocky Mountain National Park offer endless photo ops. Favorites include:

Maroon Bells Scenic Loop (Aspen) – One of the most photographed spots in the world.
Kebler Pass (Crested Butte) – Famous for one of the largest aspen groves in North America.
Bear Lake Trail (Rocky Mountain National Park) – Easy but stunning, especially with reflections of fall foliage.

Wildlife Watching: Elk Rut Season

October marks elk rutting season in Colorado. Head to Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park to hear the haunting bugle of bull elk as they compete for mates. It’s one of the most unique wildlife spectacles in the U.S.

Relaxing in Hot Springs

Cooler weather makes October the perfect time to soak in Colorado’s hot springs. Try:

Strawberry Park Hot Springs (Steamboat Springs) – Rustic and scenic.
Glenwood Hot Springs – Family-friendly and central to mountain adventures.
Ouray Hot Springs – A great stop after the Million Dollar Highway.

Mountain Biking

Many trails remain open through October, offering colorful rides through aspen tunnels. Crested Butte and Durango are particularly popular for fall biking.

🌟 Pro Tips for October Travelers

Timing Matters: High elevations change first (late September–early October). By mid to late October, foothills and Front Range cities like Denver, Golden, and Boulder glow with color.
Dress in Layers: Mornings and evenings can be frosty, while afternoons warm up. Always pack a light jacket.
Check Road Conditions: Mountain passes may get early snow; monitor CDOT for closures.
Beat the Crowds: Visit popular spots midweek for fewer tourists and better photo opportunities.

🍂 Must-Visit Towns in October

Crested Butte: Known as the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado,” but equally stunning in fall.
Aspen: True to its name, Aspen’s surrounding groves are breathtaking in October.
Durango: A perfect base for both fall colors and historic attractions.
Estes Park: Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and home to the Elk Fest.

A Golden Season You Can’t Miss

October in Colorado is fleeting but unforgettable. From golden highways lined with aspens to wildlife encounters and cozy hot spring escapes, every moment feels like a postcard. Plan wisely, pack layers, and take your time — fall here passes quickly, but its beauty will stay with you long after the leaves have fallen.

Fall Declutter: Maximize Your Impact by Donating Kids and Adult Items to Charity

September 13, 2023September 13, 2023Karee RussellLeave a comment

As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to embark on a decluttering journey. While simplifying your living space, why not make a positive impact on the community by donating gently used items to charity? In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a fall decluttering process and provide charity links to help you maximize your impact.

The Benefits of Fall Decluttering

1. Create a Serene Space

Decluttering is not just about tidying up; it’s about creating a serene and stress-free environment in your home. A clutter-free space can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

2. Help Those in Need

By donating items you no longer need, you can provide essential support to individuals and families facing financial hardship. Your unwanted possessions can become treasures for someone else.

3. Simplify Your Life

Reducing the number of belongings you own can simplify your daily routine. Fewer items mean less time spent cleaning, organizing, and maintaining your possessions.

Fall Decluttering: Step by Step

1. Set Clear Goals

Before you start, define your decluttering goals. Do you want to downsize, organize, or simply reduce clutter? Having a clear objective will guide your efforts.

2. Sort by Category

Begin decluttering by category, not by room. This approach helps you see the full scope of your possessions. Start with categories like clothing, books, toys, kitchen items, and electronics.

3. The “Keep, Donate, Discard” System

As you go through each category, categorize items into three piles:

Keep: Items you use regularly or that have sentimental value.
Donate: Gently used items that can benefit others.
Discard: Items that are broken, damaged, or beyond use.

4. Charity Donation Links

Here are some charity links to help you find organizations where you can donate your items:

Goodwill: Goodwill accepts a wide range of items, including clothing, household goods, and electronics.
The Salvation Army: The Salvation Army offers donation options for clothing, furniture, and more.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore: Donations to ReStore support Habitat for Humanity’s mission to build affordable housing.
Toys for Tots: Donate gently used toys to bring joy to children in need during the holiday season.
Dress for Success: Provide professional clothing for women entering or re-entering the workforce.

5. Schedule a Pickup or Drop-Off

Many charities offer pickup services for larger items like furniture or appliances. Alternatively, you can drop off your donations at their designated locations.

6. Organize What You Keep

Once you’ve decluttered, organize the items you’ve decided to keep. Invest in storage solutions if needed, and consider donating any excess organization items.

Conclusion: Fall Into a Clutter-Free Season of Giving

Fall decluttering is more than just tidying up; it’s an opportunity to simplify your life and make a positive impact on others. By donating gently used items to charity, you extend a helping hand to those in need while creating a serene living space for yourself.

So, as you embrace the beauty of autumn, take the time to fall into a clutter-free season of giving. Your efforts will not only bring joy to your home but also warmth to the hearts of those who benefit from your generosity.

LTKsale Fall 2023: The Ultimate Shopping Event of the Season!

September 13, 2023Karee RussellLeave a comment

As the leaves change and the air becomes crisp, it can only mean one thing – Fall is here, and so is the much-anticipated LTKsale Fall 2023 event! Get ready to revamp your wardrobe, refresh your home decor, and score incredible deals on a wide range of products. In this blog post, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about LTKsale Fall 2023, including the hottest sales deals and must-have items.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through the provided link. This comes at no extra cost to you and helps us continue to provide valuable content. We appreciate your support.

What is LTKsale?

LTKsale, powered by LIKEtoKNOW.it, is a semi-annual shopping extravaganza that brings together some of the most popular fashion, beauty, home, and lifestyle brands. It’s the perfect opportunity for savvy shoppers to snag amazing discounts and discover the latest trends.

When and Where is LTKsale Fall 2023?

Mark your calendars! LTKsale Fall 2023 is set to kick off on September 21, 2023, and it will run for 4 days. You can access all the fantastic deals and discounts on the LIKEtoKNOW.it app and website. Be sure to follow me and your favorite brands for exclusive offers and recommendations.

Top Sales Deals for LTKsale Fall 2023

Fashion Finds

Fall Wardrobe Staples: Discover unbeatable discounts on cozy sweaters, stylish boots, and chic outerwear to elevate your autumn fashion game.
Accessories Galore: From statement handbags to trendy scarves, you’ll find the perfect accessories to complete your fall outfits.
Athleisure Essentials: Stock up on activewear and athleisure pieces for those brisk outdoor workouts or comfy lounging days.

Beauty Buys

Skincare Must-Haves: Achieve that autumn glow with discounted skincare products, including serums, moisturizers, and masks.
Makeup Magic: Upgrade your makeup collection with deals on fall-inspired eyeshadow palettes, lipsticks, and more.
Fragrance Finds: Explore a wide range of fragrances for both men and women, and discover your signature scent for the season.

Home and Lifestyle

Cozy Home Decor: Give your space a fall makeover with discounts on cozy blankets, decorative pillows, and autumn-themed accents.
Kitchen Essentials: Upgrade your kitchen gadgets and cookware with deals on everything from coffee makers to cookware sets.
Tech Gadgets: Score discounts on the latest tech gadgets, including smartwatches, headphones, and more.

How to Make the Most of LTKsale Fall 2023

To ensure you have a successful LTKsale shopping experience, here are some pro tips:

Create a Wishlist: Before the sale starts, create a wishlist of the items you want to purchase. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse buys.
Follow Influencers: Follow your favorite fashion, beauty, and lifestyle influencers on LIKEtoKNOW.it to get exclusive recommendations and discount codes.
Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend during the sale and stick to your budget.
Shop Early: Popular items tend to sell out quickly, so be ready to shop as soon as the sale begins.
Check Return Policies: Familiarize yourself with the return policies of the brands you’re shopping from in case you need to make returns or exchanges.

Don’t Miss Out on LTKsale Fall 2023!

Get ready for a shopping experience like no other at LTKsale Fall 2023. From fashion and beauty to home decor and tech gadgets, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to follow LIKEtoKNOW.it on social media and keep an eye on my page for sneak peeks and updates. Happy shopping, and may your fall season be filled with incredible deals and stylish finds!